Vaccine Preventable Diseases & Immunizations

Pertussis

WHAT IS IT?

Pertussis, more commonly known as whooping cough, is a highly contagious respiratory tract infection

Although it may initially resemble an ordinary cold, whooping cough may eventually turn more serious, particularly in infants

Whooping cough is most contagious before the coughing starts. The best way to help prevent it is through vaccinations.

Pertussis not only affects children, but also adolescents and adults22

PREVENTION TIPS

Make sure you are fully immunized before you travel.23 This will include a 1-time booster dose for adolescents and adults.

Staying away from crowded places will help you avoid direct contact with infected persons

Exposure to pertussis is greater in developing countries, so children up to 7 years of age should be fully immunized

You can help protect yourself by washing your hands often with soap and water, and avoiding contact with people who are ill. Some viruses and bacteria can survive for 2 hours or longer on surfaces or objects that an infected person touches.23

IMMUNIZATIONS

Unvaccinated infants are at highest risk, but all travelers are at increased risk if they are not fully immunized or if their immunity has waned over time23

To help ensure adequate protection against pertussis, a single booster of a tetanus, diphtheria, and acellular pertussis (Tdap) vaccine is recommended for adolescents 11 through 18 years of age and should replace a single dose of tetanus and diphtheria (Td) for adults 19 through 64 years of age who have not received Tdap vaccine previously.

Adults whose vaccination history is incomplete or uncertain should receive the 3-dose primary vaccination series with Td; a dose of Tdap vaccine can be substituted for any single dose of Td in the primary series.

HELP PROTECT YOURSELF

Vaccines can help protect you from diseases that are still common in many parts of the world. Make certain you contact your health care provider and determine which vaccines you should receive before you travel.

COMBINATION VACCINES

There are combination vaccines that help protect against multiple diseases that may reduce the number of shots you need. Pertussis is included in these vaccines.

Diseases to Guard Against

When you’ve added your destinations, it is recommended that you take this list to your doctor so you can discuss relevant vaccinations before you travel.

Travel vaccines help protect you from illnesses present in other parts of the world, and help prevent the importation of infectious diseases across international borders. Which vaccinations you need depends on a number of factors, including your age, health status, and previous immunizations.

COMBINATION VACCINES

There are combination vaccines that help protect against multiple diseases that may reduce the number of shots you need.